• $100,000 - $106,000 per annum
• Applications close:
• Job posted on: 5th Aug 2026
• Melbourne > CBD & Inner Suburbs Melbourne
• Full Time
• Advocacy and Campaigns, Policy and Research, Aged Care and Seniors Rights, Community Development, Legal and Human Rights
• Not For Profit (NFP)
• Permanent
• Melbourne CBD & Hybrid Working

Advocate for the Rights of Older Victorians

For almost 75 years, COTA Victoria has been the leading voice for older people in Victoria. We work to influence policy, challenge ageism, protect rights and create opportunities for older Victorians to live with dignity, purpose and connection.

We're looking for a passionate and experienced Policy and Advocacy Advisor to help drive meaningful social change through evidence-based policy development, stakeholder engagement and strategic advocacy. This is an opportunity to join a respected not-for-profit organisation and contribute to reforms that improve the lives of older people across Victoria.

About the Role

Reporting to the Policy and Advocacy Manager, you'll work across a broad range of issues affecting older Victorians, including ageing, elder abuse prevention and the protection of rights. You will research emerging issues, develop policy positions and advocate for system-wide improvements that deliver positive outcomes for older people.

Key responsibilities include:

• Developing submissions, policy papers, briefing notes and reports.
• Leading and supporting advocacy initiatives that influence government policy and sector reform.
• Building and maintaining relationships with government, peak bodies and community stakeholders.
• Coordinating consultations and engagement activities with older people and the community sector.
• Supporting collaborative sector initiatives, including the Victorian Elder Abuse Strategic Alliance (VEASA).
• Monitoring policy, legislative and social developments impacting older people.
• Representing COTA Victoria and Seniors Rights Victoria at forums, consultations and stakeholder meetings.

About You

You are a skilled policy professional who enjoys turning research and evidence into practical recommendations and real-world impact.

You will bring:

• Experience developing policy advice, submissions, discussion papers or reports.
• Strong analytical, research and critical thinking skills.
• Exceptional written communication and stakeholder engagement abilities.
• Experience working with government, community organisations, peak bodies or advocacy groups.
• The ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities.
• Qualifications in public policy, law, social sciences, health, community development or a related field, or equivalent experience.

Why Join COTA Victoria?

At COTA Victoria you'll be part of an organisation committed to:

• Championing the voices and rights of older people.
• Influencing public policy and social reform.
• Creating lasting community impact.
• Working in a supportive and collaborative environment.
• Living our values of Respect, Diversity, Collaboration and Integrity.

Benefits

• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
• Purpose-driven work with genuine social impact.
• Professional development opportunities.
• A positive and collaborative workplace culture.
• Convenient Melbourne CBD office location.

Employment Details

• Permanent Full-Time (1.0 FTE)
• SCHADS Award - Community Development Worker Level 5
• Location: Level 1, 420 St Kilda Road, Melbourne
• National Police Check required.

Applications

If you're passionate about social justice, human rights and creating a better future for older Victorians, we'd love to hear from you.

To submit your application please click 'Apply Now' by the closing date.

A position description is attached.

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